Who Founded United Airlines
United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world. It is based in the United States and flies to over 200 destinations. Through the Star Alliance, of which the company was a founding member, they offer connections to over 170 countries. The company employs over 48,000 people and operates over 350 aircraft. United Airlines’ largest hub is Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, but they also have hubs in 4 other US airports and 1 in Japan. If you have ever wanted to know who founded this airline, continue reading to discover the answer.
Who founded United Airlines?
The founding of United Airlines can be traced back to 1926 when American aviation pioneer Walter Thomas Varney created the Varney Air Lines company to deliver mail. In 1928 his company, along with many other mail delivery airlines, was purchased by Boeing Air Transport. In the same year the airline carried its first passengers. A year later Boeing Air Transport merged with Pratt & Whitney to become the United Aircraft and Transport Corporation. In 1931 this company formed the corporation United Air Lines, Inc.
Did you know?
In 1933 a United Airlines plane exploded and crashed after a nitroglycerin bomb was placed in the baggage hold. It is believed to be the first case of air sabotage in the history of commercial airlines.
The founder of United Airlines, Walter Thomas Varney, is also known for founding Continental Airlines. Ironically, the two companies merged in 2010 to become United Continental Holdings.
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